1. Northumbria University 2016/17 How your bachelors degree is classified
This is simplified explanation – for more detail see our regulations.
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2. Degree Classification: Method
The calculation for the classification Degree (Hons) Programmes is based on:
Either:
the average mark of the best 200 graded credits (100 at Level 6 and 100 at Level 5) in levels 6:5 weighted 60%:40% or
the average mark of the best 100 credits in Level 6
We use whichever benefits you most and to recognise ‘exit velocity’ – i.e. if you get better results in your final year (Level 6) your classification will be based on Level 6 marks alone
Module size doesn’t matter, as  the calculation breaks down each level of study into 1 credit ‘chunks’ (e.g. a 30 credit dissertation or project = 30 x 1 credit ‘chunks’) and removes the lowest 20 of these from each level.
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3. Degree Classification: Worked Example
Your Level 4, 5 and 6 modules are graded are as follows:
* (40 credit L6 dissertation)
Level 4 Modules are not included in the classification calculation
Lowest scoring 20 credits in Level 5 and Level 6 (Module 1 in this example) are not included in the classification calculation
Classification is based on method 1 or method 2 (whichever benefits the student):
Method 1: (L6:5 weighted 60%:40%) 62%
Method 2: (L6 weighted 100%) 70%
Classification outcome: 70%
Module 1 (20 credits)
Module 2 (20 credits)
Module 3 (20 credits)
Module 4 (20 credits)
Module 5 (20 credits)
Module 6 (20 credits)
Level 4
40%
Level 5
50%
Level 6
70%
70%*
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4. Degree Classification: Important Notes
All level 5 and level 6 results are considered, whether you pass your modules/credits outright or whether you pass after a resit or are compensated. **
Even though we use the best credits for degree classification YOU MUST still complete all credits
Also:
all grades for all modules will be listed on your transcripts
In borderline cases all grades will be considered to make a final classification
**Compensation is when you fail a module but, because you have passed other modules this ‘compensates’ for the fail and you don’t have to do a resit.
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Academic Registry Supporting the Academic Journey

5. Degree Classification: “Borderline” Cases
You have to get 70%+ overall for a 1st class; 60%+ overall for a 2:1; 50%+ for a 2:2; 40%+ for a 3rd
We look at anyone who is borderline – i.e. if your overall mark (based on the method described above) is within 2% of a class of degree class (or within 3% of a 1st class).
You will be awarded the Higher classification :
if you have an average mark of 69%, 59% or 49% and half of all of the graded credits at level 6 are on or above the appropriate boundary
if the majority of your marks at level 6 lie on or above the boundary.
Academic Registry Supporting the Academic Journey
Academic Registry Supporting the Academic Journey

6. Questions
If you have any questions contact
the Ask4Help service point at any of the Student Central locations,
us at
telephone us on
Academic Registry Supporting the Academic Journey
Academic Registry Supporting the Academic Journey